Hidden Gems: Discover Lesser-Known Hiking Trails in the United States

Escape the crowds and explore the beauty of lesser-known hiking trails across the US. From the rugged Lost Coast Trail in California to the serene Uinta Highline Trail in Utah, find your next adventure off the beaten path.

Mark Henle/The Republic / USA TODAY

While popular trails like the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail get much of the spotlight, there are numerous lesser-known hiking gems across the United States that offer equally stunning landscapes and rewarding experiences. Here are some of the best lesser-known hiking trails that are worth exploring:

1. Lost Coast Trail, California

Lost Coast Trail, California / Bureau of Land Management

• Location: Northern California Coast
• Highlights: This remote trail offers rugged coastal scenery, pristine beaches, and solitude. Hikers can expect challenging terrain, tide-dependent sections, and spectacular ocean views.
• Best For: Experienced hikers looking for a unique coastal adventure.

2. Black Mountain Crest Trail, North Carolina

Timothy Krol, of West Virginia, hikes with his dog, Ziggy, along the Black Mountain Crest trail at Mount Mitchell State Park. / Angeli Wright via Imagn Content

• Location: Pisgah National Forest
• Highlights: Known as one of the toughest hikes in the Eastern US, this trail includes multiple peaks over 6,000 feet, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Best For: Advanced hikers seeking elevation gains and challenging terrain.

3. Teton Crest Trail, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park Foundation

• Location: Grand Teton National Park
• Highlights: This stunning trail traverses the Teton Range, offering breathtaking alpine scenery, wildflower meadows, and close encounters with wildlife. It's a multi-day hike with dramatic mountain views.
• Best For: Backpackers and nature lovers interested in a scenic, multi-day adventure.

4. Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota

Superior Hiking Trail Sign /

• Location: Along the north shore of Lake Superior
• Highlights: Spanning nearly 300 miles, this trail features diverse landscapes including boreal forests, river gorges, and sweeping views of Lake Superior. It's known for its beautiful fall foliage.
• Best For: Hikers of all levels looking for a long-distance trail with varied scenery.

5. Ozark Highlands Trail, Arkansas

Ozark Highlands Trail / Dan Maher from Arkansas Encyclopedia

• Location: Ozark National Forest
• Highlights: This trail offers a mix of rugged terrain, stunning bluffs, and serene streams. Hikers will find solitude and diverse wildlife in the heart of the Ozarks.
• Best For: Hikers seeking a tranquil, backcountry experience.

6. Uinta Highline Trail, Utah

Uinta Highline Trail /

• Location: Uinta Mountains
• Highlights: A high-altitude trail that offers expansive alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and remote wilderness. The trail traverses the Uinta Mountain range, with several segments above 10,000 feet.
• Best For: Experienced hikers and backpackers looking for high-altitude challenges.

7. Art Loeb Trail, North Carolina

Sunset at Black Balsam Knob near the Art Loeb spur trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway / Jennifer Heaslip/Times-News / USA TODAY

• Location: Pisgah National Forest
• Highlights: This challenging trail provides stunning vistas, high-elevation balds, and diverse ecosystems. It’s known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
• Best For: Intermediate to advanced hikers seeking elevation and scenic beauty.

8. Wind River Range, Wyoming

Antelope and the Wind River Range south of Pinedale, Wyoming, on March 23, 2022. / Mark Henle/The Republic / USA TODAY

• Location: Bridger-Teton National Forest
• Highlights: The Wind River Range offers remote alpine scenery, glacier-carved valleys, and pristine lakes. The Cirque of the Towers and Titcomb Basin are highlights of this rugged wilderness.
• Best For: Experienced backpackers looking for secluded alpine adventures.

Conclusion

These lesser-known hiking trails offer unique and breathtaking experiences away from the crowds. Whether you're seeking coastal views, alpine challenges, or tranquil forests, these hidden gems provide opportunities for adventure and exploration. Pack your gear, plan your route, and set off to discover some of the best-kept secrets in the hiking world.